in the past, the state used to step in. nowadays, there is just not the money. > the association of the blind has a budget of 500,000 euros a year for the whole of bulgaria. that is made up of the association's rental income and state funding. we're expected to look after 16,800 non-sighted people across the country with that -- it is impossible. and >> it is time for a break. he goes to meet his wife in her small shop around a corner. she manages to run the shop, even though she is blind. with her humor and her energy, she encourages him to carry on in these difficult times. >> most blind people still think the state and the blind association should look after them. that is no longer possible. they have to change their mentality. they have to start looking for work even though it is very difficult. we will help them, of course, but they will not get anywhere and will continue to be marginalized unless they take the initiative. >> the first losers in bulgaria's fledgling democracy -- the old, the week, and most of all, the